Former Director, Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr Okey Chidolue on Tuesday, launched a multimillion health facility project, Premium Dialysis Hospital in Nnewi, Anambra State.
Speaking during the flag off, Chidolue said the philosophy of the health facility, located at Akwuogananya enclave, Edoji, Uruagu Nnewi was informed by rising cases of kidney failures and related diseases.
He explained that kidney problem should not be seen as a death sentence, but noted that its management was an uphill task that could not be successful without government and community support.
He said, “Apart from providing solutions to health challenges of Nnewi residents and beyond, the hospital would create employment opportunities for those in and around Nnewi community.
“Our project duration is twelve months and, when completed, will most likely be the largest kidney hospital in Anambra State and the first kidney transplant Centre in entire South East.
“It will provide needed employment of skilled labour in our community and will significantly reduce medical tourism in Nigeria.
He further said the facility, expected to be completed in twelve months was to touch as many lives as possible.
Commissioner for Health, Dr Vincent Okpala while lauding Dr Chidolue for the initiative, described kidney infection as a killer disease which he regretted had already killed many in Nigeria.
The event attracted prominent medical practitioners from both private and public health institutions including Prof. Obi Nwosu and Dr Eric Azuka who was chairman on the occasion.
Others were the traditional ruler of Nnewi community, Igwe Kenneth Orizu III represented by the Crown Prince, Obi and all the Obis in Nnewi community. (TheNation)